More than five years of research offers little evidence that students who attend federally funded remedial and learning disabled reading programs improve their reading skills. The three assumptions underlying these programs are discussed. Ways teachers and schools can evaluate their programs are listed. (MT)

A Brooklyn (NY) district superintendent rebuts arguments against the Chicago Mastery Learning Reading (CMLR) program that appeared in an article in Learning (November 1982). Based on his district's experience with CMLR, the superintendent points to improved reading scores, teacher enthusiasm, and renewed student interest in reading as indications…

This article briefly describes 10 well-regarded thinking skills programs, categorized as either infused programs, which are integrated into the established curriculum, or separate programs devoted to teaching skills. A program buyers checklist is provided. Additionally, a resource list is given which includes other notable programs, competitions,…

A former teacher describes how she came to change her "no excuses, no extensions" policy about homework after realizing that not all students come from healthy, nurturing home environments. She solved the problem by setting up an after school study program. (JL)

Presents two opinions on motivating students through reading incentive programs. The first suggests that such programs benefit students by building self-esteem, with students earning while they learn. The second states that rewards may lower comprehension and dull long-term interest in reading, with children focusing on rewards rather than…

Schools should stimulate, challenge, and, above all, educate children, but not primarily in the three R's. The common school, which emphasizes learning how to learn, is essential to the preservation and cultivation of a democratic way of life. (CJ)